EXETER - South Coast

The Exeter, sunk off the South Coast in 1941, isn't just a wreck, it's a time capsule. We love how the story of its bombing by aircraft still feels present here, even after all these years. Resting upright in 31 metres, it's an imposing sight as you descend, the superstructure still largely intact, a skeletal frame against the green Irish water. You can push into the hold if you’re comfortable, imagining the trawler’s final moments. Our favourite part is the stern, where the prop shaft and rudder are still clearly visible, draped in anemones and dead man’s fingers. The light here often has a wonderful, diffused quality, illuminating schools of pollock that dart through the shadows and conger eels peeking from every nook. We’d suggest diving this one on a slack tide, the currents can be quite frisky, and you'll want time to absorb the atmosphere. This site really suits divers with a good level of experience who appreciate maritime history and aren't afraid of a bit of an adventure.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.764780, -8.080667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
31m

Marine Protected Area: Bhaile Choitín

Best Time to Dive in South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in South Coast occur in January, averaging 8.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 8.8°C (air: 7.0°C)
  • February: 8.8°C (air: 8.3°C)
  • March: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)
  • April: 8.8°C (air: 9.3°C)
  • May: 8.8°C (air: 11.8°C)
  • June: 8.8°C (air: 14.2°C)
  • July: 8.8°C (air: 15.6°C)
  • August: 8.8°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • September: 8.8°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • October: 8.8°C (air: 12.4°C)
  • November: 8.8°C (air: 9.9°C)
  • December: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to EXETER

Marine Life in South Coast

Home to 199 recorded species including 97 reef fish, 24 sharks & rays, 14 whales & dolphins, 14 other, 10 crabs & lobsters, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for EXETER

Based on average water temperature of 8.8°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 9°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories